Music Production Knowledge Backlog
Here you can browse the latest published tutorials, guides, tools, articles, music posts, videos, and releases in one timeline. If you want a smaller overview, start with Polarity Music tutorials, Bitwig guides, Building Bitwig Grids, helpers, articles, music videos, releases, or the music hub. If you want something specific, use the search.
In this video, I started with an empty project in Bitwig Studio and used a random module to generate pitch and gate information. I dialed the speed to 85 BPM, and used an attenuator to limit the pitch, followed by a quantizer to bring it to a scale. I then used a clock to sync the pitch and rhythm and added a delay modulator. I then added an oscillator and a noise source to create a drone and used an LFO to add sequencing. Finally, I added some drums, a clap, and a piano sound to give the generative track some meaning.
In this video, I showed some ways to create court versions with the NoteFX devices of Bitwig Studio. I demonstrated how to use the diatonic transpose to bring chords to a certain scale, and how to use the octave wrapper to move notes within an octave range. I also showed how to use the multi note to create chords with different amounts of modulation and how to mix major and minor chords together. Finally, I showed how to use a macro knob to create inversions with one knob.
In this video, I share some tips and tricks for using the diatonic transposer in Bitwig Studio to create jazzy chord progressions. I show how to use a multi note device in combination with a key filter and transposer to create a chord brush. I also demonstrate how to use a pitch 12 to modulate multi notes between major and minor chords. Lastly, I show how to create chord gradients by stacking notes in seven semitone steps.
In this video, I discussed how to connect VCV reg and Bitwig Studio together and how to get started with VCV reg. I showed how to connect modules, what modules to choose, how to get something going and how to get information from Bitwig into VCV reg and out of VCV reg back into Bitwig Studio. I explained how to synchronize everything, quantize notes, and more. I demonstrated how to create a simple wave table synthesizer monophonic with just two simple signals coming from Bitwig studio and how to modulate it with a random modulator from inside of Bitwig studio in VZV rack. I also showed how to use a quantizer, sample and hold, and trigger buffer to synchronize signals and create interesting rhythms. Finally, I demonstrated how to use a low pass filter and sequencer to create melodies.
In this video, I shared some tips on how to use the new Bitwig 4.1 FX Note-FX devices. I showed how to use the note-repeater device to create an interesting sound, how to use the arpeggiator to get different rhythms and timing settings, how to use the ricochet device to modulate panning and tremolo, and how to use the multi note device to get different triplet rhythms using velocity.
Learn how to make drum and bass in Bitwig by starting with the bass groove, building drums around it, shaping the bass sound, and arranging a full DnB idea from scratch.
In this video, I explored the new Bitwig Studio 4.1 Note-FX devices, including Ripple, Ricochet, Quantize, Randomize, Band, Note Repeat, and Sampler Release. I showed how to use them to create interesting rhythms, textures and soundscapes, as well as to constrain notes to a specific scale. I demonstrated how to use the devices to transform simple note clips into complex and expressive rhythms and melodies.
In this video, I produce a melodic techno or melodic house tune inside Bitwig Studio. I start from zero with no idea what to do and end up with a track that is 7 minutes long. I use a variety of techniques such as automation, modulation, sound design, mixing, arranging, and keeping the sequence interesting. I show how to create a root drone, how to use an instrument, how to apply audio effects, and how to use a step modulator. I also demonstrate how to use an LFO, an EQ, and a reverb device.
In this video, I demonstrated how to create a code progression tool or preset inside Bitwig Studio. I explained step-by-step how to create quads, change the relationships between notes, introduce rhythmic elements, apply swing and groove, route notes to different instruments, bounce MIDI clips, and tweak further. I also showed how the Poly-Grid device works and how it can interact with VST instruments, synthesizers and external hardware. Finally, I introduced some tips such as using attinuates to scale down the pitch range, creating chromatic chords, quantizing the rhythm with sample and holds, and using a macro knob to change the scale from the outside.
In this video, I tried out Unfilter by Zynaptiq and I was surprised by how well it works. I demonstrated how it can be used to reduce resonances and improve the frequency distribution of a drum loop. I also showed how it can be used to tame harmonics and create a more balanced sound. I discussed some of the features that make Unfilter unique, such as the decay setting and the Fletcher Monson curve. I concluded by recommending that viewers try the trial version to see if Unfilter is right for them.
In this video, I explored the Insta Composer plugin and showed how it can be used to generate generic music for background music, streaming, and other projects. I demonstrated how to tweak parameters like chords, scale, population, and key. I also explored how to use the plugin inside Bitwig and how to export the generated music.
In this video, I created two new presets for my Patreons called Little Looper Synced and Little Looper raw. I explained how they work and what you can do with them. Syncd is quantized to the project tempo, while Raw lets you start and stop recording anytime. I showed how you can use them with a synth line and how you can customize the settings, such as loop length, pan, start offset, and restart. I also showed how you can use them with a radio and for sound design, and how you can replace the steps with a random or dice module. I hope this video was helpful, so if you're interested, don't forget to subscribe to my Patreon or YouTube Membership to download these presets and let me know what you think in the comments.
I created a new preset called "Groove Machine" which adds a groove to note clips. The main feature of this preset is the step sequencer, which allows you to dial in delays of up to 90 milliseconds to push and pull notes. Additionally, you can dial in randomization and different step patterns to create unique grooves. I showed how to use it on a drum loop and a bass line to demonstrate how it works. You can download this preset and experiment with it to create your own unique grooves.
I recently bought the pitch map plugin by Zynaptiq, and I've been experimenting with it to create unusual workflows. I can use it to correct a pitch to a different note, and I can also use it to turn percussion sounds into synths, or use samples in the sampler. I can also use it on my Eurorack and analog synths to get diatonic chords. Overall, pitch map is a really useful plugin that I'm having a lot of fun experimenting with.
In this video, I showed off a new modular environment application that was released yesterday. It's completely free and works on all platforms. I explored the different modules and signals and explained how they are different from a traditional modular synthesizer. I also discussed the naming conventions and how the developer has a different mindset when it comes to the modules. I demonstrated how to use an LFO and how to use a VST. Finally, I encouraged viewers to download the application, try it out and leave a donation to the developer for his hard work.
In this video, I explained how to use the Generative Meat to create your own unique track. You can use the Generator to generate a new sequence every 16 bars and then add your own kick drum, hi-hats, drums and other melodic parts. You can also adjust the note range and the sequence will always be in D sharp minor. Finally, you can add a side chain at the end and use samples from your hard drive to create a whole one hour set.